#WCW- Meet Fashion Editor Xolani Gumede

“I am the Fashion Editor at Essentials Magazine. I am in charge of product content creation for both our digital and print platforms, writing all fashion articles for both platforms, and conceptualising, styling our fashion editorials every month, as well as styling our cover stars.”

“As we head into the warmer months, there are two seemingly opposing chains of thoughts; be bold or laid back cool. So look out for both pops of bright neon and utility inspired clothing in muted hues (like sage green). When it comes to detailing, bow accents, dainty ruffles and fringe seem to be making a comeback.”

What advice would you give a young person wanting to work at a print publication?

“My advice would be to work on your digital acumen. That may sound weird, but digital media is taking over the industry. So stay ahead of the curve by immersing yourself with all things digital. From SEO development, to thinking of yourself as more of a content producer than a print writer.”

What have your career highlights been so far?

“Oh gosh, there have been so many, but two of my highlights are traveling internationally with companies that respect and work with our magazine; and working with Chef Nti for the cover we did with her. She is truly a self-made successful business woman (her story was so inspirational).”

How do you keep up with fashion and digital trends? Which sites or influencers do you follow?

“I’m lucky enough to be able to attend fashion shows, which are a pretty good indicator of what to look out for in terms of trends. Our local designers like Rich Mnisi, Mmuso Maxwell, and Black Coffee are a wonderful way to stay ahead of the trends and fashion curve. In terms of local influencers, I really like Palesa Mahlaba, Aqueelah Harron and of course Sarah Langa. They have individual style and a great work ethic which is inspiring to observe.”

“The free clothing of course! But seriously, I love being able to come up with new and interesting fashion concepts for every issue, and of course working with super creative photographers and makeup artists.”

You have your own natural hair blog, please tell us a little bit about that. What inspired you to start it and where can we find that?

“Oh gosh, it’s not a blog as of yet… Looking at the market and the move towards Instagram and YouTube has shifted my focus. So I would like to take that focus onto my Instagram account. The natural hair journey is long and challenging one, but you can look to my Instagram page for natural hair tips and tricks that have worked for me. I’m only about 2 and a half years natural, so I’m not rushing it. I share as I learn and grow in this journey.”